Bangkok (VNA) - Thailand expects a tourism revenue of 62 billion THB (1.83 billion USD) during the upcoming New Year festival, up 23% over the same time last year, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said that the country hopes to welcome 1.56 million foreign travellers between December 21 and January 1, representing a 16% increase over 2023. They are expected to generate 45 billion THB in tourism revenue, up 20% year-on-year, she added.
For the domestic market, 4.41 million trips are anticipated during the five-day holiday from December 28 and Jannuary 1 and should generate 17 billion THB, increasing 29% and 30%, respectively.
Thapanee said most foreign tourists would start their trips before the Christmas holiday.
She attributed the increases to the Thai government’s decisions on visa exemptions and the easing of immigration rules as well as the introduction of additional flights that have attracted foreign tourists to Thailand, including those from China, the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, India, Scandinavia and France.
World-class events introduced by TAT and its partners are also drawing foreign travellers and influencers to Thailand, she said, adding that the country has been recognised by global media outlets, such as Condé Nast Traveler, Timeout and Lonely Planet.
The Thai Government has announced a five-day public holiday, which will start earlier on December 28. It has also collaborated with six airlines to reduce domestic airfares by 30% for high-demand routes, such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Udon Thani and Khon Kaen.
Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association, said hotel bookings nationwide remained strong in December, particularly New Year week
He said hotels in some places like the East, covering SriRacha, Chon Buri and Pattaya, are expecting to set records.
However, three-star hotels that are not located in prime areas may not do as well as four-star and luxury hotels./.
Thailand expects 40 million foreign tourists next year
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